NACTEL Program

The NACTEL program celebrated its 9 th year of operation in 2007. Since its inception in the spring of 1999, the NACTEL program has had many thousands of students pursuing their associate or bachelor's degrees. The NACTEL program, sponsored by Verizon, Qwest, AT&T, Citizens, the IBEW and CWA, offers high quality online education focusing on telecommunications.

On average, about 750 students are actively involved in the NACTEL program at one time. Students take courses throughout the year, utilizing five overlapping terms (Summer, Early Fall, Late Fall, Early Spring and Late Spring). Students pursue AS degrees that focus on telecommunications, wireless, broadband, and video. In addition, they may pursue a BS in Telecommunications completion degree.

In May 2007, 119 students graduated from the NACTEL program. About 30 of them came from all over the United States (along with many friends and family) for the NACTEL dinner on May 22 and then graduation at Radio City Music Hall on Wednesday May 23rd.

Students have had many wonderful things to say about the NACTEL program.

"As I was taking a course through Pace University, my office was dealing with technology changes. I was able to explain things to my co-workers with out even thinking about it.  NACTEL has made a lot of things possible for me."

Robert Linville, Bachelor of Science
Verizon
Central Office Tech
IBEW 824 member for 11 1/2 years
Palm Harbor, FL

"I was a single mom with two teenagers and was working 12 hours a day, 6-7 days a week.  Looking back, the outcome was worth it.  I would do it all again in a heartbeat." 

Mary Billanti, Bachelor of Science
Verizon
Field Tech
CWA 1122 member for 35 years
Amherst, NY

"I changed positions and elevated my career thanks to the online classes I took through the NACTEL program at Pace University."

Matt Cariveau, Bachelor of Science
Qwest
Broadband Technician
CWA 7200 member since 2000
East Bethel, MN

"College degrees are a plus.  A degree makes a difference in the way you are perceived by your peers, it elevates pay and promotes job security."

Donna Hull, Associate in Science
Qwest
Service Delivery Coordinator
Seattle, WA
CWA  7800